Ex-Chiefs winger questions Pirates’ appointment of Ouaddou

Photo Credit – Orlando Pirates Football Club.

Orlando Pirates’ appointment of ex-Morocco defender, Abdeslam Ouaddou, as head coach has courted massive reaction across South Africa, and one person who joined the fray is former Kaizer Chiefs winger, Junior Khanye.

Pirates named the former Marumo Gallants manager on Monday, June 23, as a replacement for Jose Riveiro, who left to join Egyptian giants, Al Ahly.

Former Mamelodi Sundowns and Wydad head coach Rulani Mokwena was in line for the Buccaneers job; however, the Soweto giants announced Abdeslam Ouaddou, who steered Gallants to the Betway Premiership safety last season.

Junior Khanye says he is not convinced about the new Orlando Pirates coach: “I observed him at Marumo Gallants last season, and he did well, but I believe Rulani Mokwena and Pitso Mosimane could have made a better choice,” Khanye told KickOff.

“Yes, the new coach had success at Marumo Gallants, but Pirates is a massive brand. I’m not convinced he is the ideal replacement for Jose Riveiro, who secured several titles with the club during his tenure, particularly with younger players.

“Will he elevate Pirates from the position where Jose Riveiro left them? I think he was the right coach for Marumo Gallants. Rulani and Pitso could have effectively complemented the type of players the Pirates have.

“However, it appears that Pirates wanted a coach who would allow the management to have a significant influence on team decisions,” Khanye added.

“Abdeslam Ouaddou should have stayed at least another season at Gallants and aimed to win a trophy there. I have my doubts; his appointment surprised me. I’m puzzled by it. I think he was chosen because he is willing to work under Pirates’ conditions.”

Abdeslam guided Marumo Gallants to a 10th-place finish last season on 32 points, five away from relegation.